The Emerging South Africa team has announced three changes for their second IRB Nations Cup match against Italy A on Sunday in Bucharest.

Amongst the forwards powerful number eight Ashley Johnson and lock Hendrik Roodt are promoted from the reserve bench to the starting line-up. They replace Nico du Plessis and Francois Prinsloo.

Johnson in particular made a huge difference when he came on as impact player in the 11-3 win over Georgia on Wednesday.

Right wing Maka Lolo was preferred to Howard Noble in an effort to strengthen the backline.

The second round clash between arguably the two strongest sides at the tournament will provide a strong clue as to who will take the coveted trophy back home.

Chester Williams, the Emerging SA coach, told www.sarugby.co.za he was looking forward to a much better all-round performance from the defending champions.

The Italians have a well-balanced team and they were impressive against Russia. We have to show more purpose with ball in hand and our set pieces must also improve. The guys know they did not play well against Georgia and all are eager to show they are capable of much better, said Williams.